What truly is necessary? The answer varies based on individual, cultural, and spiritual perspectives. In the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, we find the principle of aparigraha—living with minimal things. But this isn’t about restriction. On the contrary, embracing minimalism creates immense freedom in life.

Think about it: practicing non-attachment allows you to let go while saving money on unnecessary purchases. You free up storage space, avoid the hassle of moving with excess belongings, and skip the stress of trying to sell unwanted items.

As Patanjali notes in Yoga Sutra 2.39: “When one is steadfast in non-possessiveness, knowledge of past and future lives unfolds.” This sutra illustrates how embracing aparigraha opens the door to deeper understanding and freedom. Let’s explore how frugal living aligns with the yogic path.

Guest Writer Yogi LB’s Guide to Frugal Living

An ongoing quest for me—one that I’m renewing this year—is to eliminate all that is unnecessary from my life. You might assume this means cutting out everything enjoyable, but that’s not true. Let me explain.

Defining Necessity on the Yogic Path

The first question to ask is: what does “necessary” truly mean? And more importantly, necessary for what? The answer will differ for everyone, but for me, it means: “necessary for a happy yogic life.”

Beyond basic needs like clothing, shelter, food, and a yoga mat, my happiness includes strong relationships with my wife and children. I don’t need costly experiences to nurture these relationships—I can enjoy quality time with my kids at a free park rather than indulging in expensive entertainment like movies, malls, or waterparks.

Mindful Consumption and True Happiness

We all need to eat, but do we need junk food? You might say sweets or french fries make you happy—but do they really? This exercise forces us to examine whether happiness comes from external things. As yogis, we look within for contentment and remove anything that dims our inner light.

For example, coffee and chocolate have been recent challenges for me. I love them both, but the caffeine addiction makes me crave them more than I truly need. So, I’m working to cut them out. Once free from dependency, I may enjoy them occasionally without slipping into habitual consumption.

Simple Ways to Cut Unnecessary Expenses

Here are a few areas where I’ve embraced a more minimalistic, yogic approach:

• Movies: I rarely go anymore.
• Sweets: Even healthy ones—I challenge myself to do without.
• Gadgets & Gizmos: Fun but not necessary.
• Books: I opt for used books or trade them unless it’s a must-have yogic text.
• Eating Out: For now, home cooking is the priority.

I’ve already simplified my life significantly, and the joy I’ve found in this process keeps me motivated. While there’s always more to refine, I find fulfillment not only in the end goal but in the journey itself.